ATLANTA (AP)  The United Methodist Church’s missions agency is moving its headquarters from New York City, where it has been based for nearly 200 years, to Atlanta.

Global Ministries said in a statement that it plans to move into space in Georgia’s capital city in the fall of 2016. A groundbreaking ceremony is planned for Tuesday afternoon.

The organization says about 150 employees will move into the new midtown Atlanta headquarters.

Global Ministries says it supports 350 missionaries in 60 countries.

Thomas Kemper, the mission board’s top executive, told the United Methodist News Service that international flights through Atlanta’s airport; a lower cost of living for employees; and the ability to partner with organizations such as Emory University and the Carter Center were all factors in the relocation decision.